The donation provides future generations an opportunity to
experience rail history
OMAHA,
Neb., Oct. 26, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Union
Pacific Railroad today announced two steam engines that are among
the last of their kind in existence, including the 1940s-era
Challenger No. 3985, will travel from Wyoming to Illinois in November, with other pieces of
vintage rail equipment.
Union Pacific donated a small portion of its Heritage Fleet
earlier this year to the nonprofit Railroading Heritage of Midwest
America (RRHMA), as part of Union Pacific's continued commitment to
preserving this nation's rich railroad history.
RRHMA plans a multiyear, multimillion-dollar restoration of the
equipment, including returning the steam locomotives to operating
condition.
"The Railroading Heritage of Midwest America shares our deep
appreciation of the role railroads have played and continue to play
in building America, and we are proud Union Pacific's legacy will
live on for future generations to enjoy and learn from," said
Scott Moore, senior vice
president–Corporate Relations and chief administrative officer.
The donated equipment, which will be towed to Illinois, will leave Union Pacific's Steam
Shop in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on
Nov. 11, and will make periodic
maintenance stops along the route.
The special train is scheduled to arrive at the RRHMA's shop in
Silvis, Illinois, Nov. 19.
Union Pacific plays a leading role in preserving railroad
history and maintains the finest heritage fleet in the world, which
includes the world's largest steam locomotive, the Big Boy No.
4014, and the fastest steam locomotive, the Living Legend No. 844.
Each year, Union Pacific proudly sponsors a steam tour, inviting
communities and rail fans to whistlestops and displays across its
23-state network to celebrate Union Pacific's rich heritage and
learn about modern rail operations.
The donated equipment includes:
- 4-6-6-4 Challenger No. 3985
- Class TTT-6, 2-10-2 No. 5511
- The Centennial No. 6936
- E9B passenger locomotive shell
- Four 1950s coach cars
- Diner-Lounge car
- Baggage car
- Caboose
- Two business cars: the Selma, built in 1912, and the
Stanford, built in 1928.
A steam tracking map showing locations and route details will be
available at upsteam.com
ABOUT UNION PACIFIC
Union Pacific (NYSE: UNP)
delivers the goods families and businesses use every day with safe,
reliable and efficient service. Operating in 23 western states, the
company connects its customers and communities to the global
economy. Trains are the most environmentally responsible way to
move freight, helping Union Pacific protect future generations.
More information about Union Pacific is available at
www.up.com.
www.up.com
www.facebook.com/unionpacific
www.twitter.com/unionpacific
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SOURCE Union Pacific Corporation